JD Sports announced a long-term franchise partnership with Mexican fashion retailer Grupo Axo to expand into Mexico, targeting demand from the country’s growing young population. Axo will operate JD stores and e-commerce using the brand’s intellectual property, while the companies will market JD’s own-brand and exclusive footwear, apparel and accessories. More than 140 premises will be operated through Axo’s existing sneaker stores, with larger stores planned at key locations over time. The expansion comes as JD cut its profit outlook after weaker demand from its core younger and less affluent customers affected its U.S. and Canadian market, which generates more than a third of sales. The agreement broadens JD’s franchise platform, which includes 75 JD and Courir franchise stores across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.